The following key learnings I’ve taken from this experience:
• Be committed to talent development. Allocate enough time to every team member. Don’t let your functional objectives/tasks to keep you busy and deprioritize Associates’ development.
• One size does not fit all. All Associates are individuals with their strengths, ambitious, motivation, interests. Do not use one approach for all Associates’ development. Recognize their individuality and potential and help them to compile unique development plans targeting their development needs. Use stretch roles, projects and experiences for those who can and want to accelerate their development.
• Hold frequent development discussions. Be honest in the conversation with the Associate about his/her development. Be open in discussing strengths and areas for development, potential and future opportunities.
• Provide constructive, timely and actionable feedback. People need continuous feedback to grow. When providing feedback discuss the facts and give examples.
• Be the role model in personal development for your team members. Lead and encourage Associates’ personal development by example.
